U.S. patent application number 13/675402 was filed with the patent office on 2014-05-15 for systems, components, and methods for expressing breast milk.
This patent application is currently assigned to INFANTINO, LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is INFANTINO, LLC. Invention is credited to Colette Gartner Cosky, John L. Hradisky, Maureen O'Connor Salazar.
Application Number | 20140135683 13/675402 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 50682382 |
Filed Date | 2014-05-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140135683 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Hradisky; John L. ; et
al. |
May 15, 2014 |
SYSTEMS, COMPONENTS, AND METHODS FOR EXPRESSING BREAST MILK
Abstract
Systems, components and methods for expressing breast milk are
described herein. An adapter includes a first connector portion, a
second connector portion and a transition portion extending between
the first connector portion and the second connector portion. At
least the first connector portion and the transition portion
cooperate to define an interior chamber configured to receive
fluid. The first connector portion is configured for connection to
a pump assembly, and the second connector portion is configured for
connection, via a plurality of internal threads, to a spout of a
fluid container.
Inventors: |
Hradisky; John L.; (Aurora,
OH) ; Salazar; Maureen O'Connor; (Chicago, IL)
; Cosky; Colette Gartner; (San Diego, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
INFANTINO, LLC |
Streetsboro |
OH |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
INFANTINO, LLC
Streetsboro
OH
|
Family ID: |
50682382 |
Appl. No.: |
13/675402 |
Filed: |
November 13, 2012 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
604/74 ;
285/390 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61M 1/062 20140204;
A61M 1/06 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
604/74 ;
285/390 |
International
Class: |
A61M 1/06 20060101
A61M001/06; F16L 15/00 20060101 F16L015/00 |
Claims
1. An adapter comprising: a first connector portion comprising a
first inner surface and a first outer surface; a second connector
portion comprising a second inner surface, a second outer surface,
and a plurality of internal threads; and a transition portion
comprising a third inner surface and a third outer surface, the
transition portion extending between the first connector portion
and the second connector portion, the third inner surface of the
transition portion tapering inwardly toward the second inner
surface of the second connector portion; wherein at least the first
connector portion and the transition portion cooperate to define an
interior chamber configured to receive fluid; the first connector
portion is configured for connection to a pump assembly to
facilitate establishing at least intermittent fluid communication
between an outlet passage of a pump assembly and the interior
chamber; and the second connector portion is configured for
connection, via the plurality of internal threads, to a spout of a
fluid container to facilitate establishing fluid communication
between the interior chamber and a chamber defined by a fluid
container.
2. The adapter of claim 1, wherein: the first connector portion
further comprises a plurality of external threads.
3. The adapter of claim 2, wherein: the third inner surface of the
transition portion is generally cup-shaped.
4. The adapter of claim 2, wherein: the third inner surface of the
transition portion blends smoothly with at least the first inner
surface of the first connector portion.
5. The adapter of claim 2, further comprising: a plurality of
circumferentially spaced fins.
6. The adapter of claim 5, wherein: each of the fins extends
outwardly from at least one of the transition portion and the
second connector portion.
7. The adapter of claim 6, wherein: each of the fins comprises a
linear, distal surface extending outwardly from the annular distal
surface of the second connector portion, such that the linear,
distal surface is coplanar with the annular distal surface.
8. The adapter of claim 6, wherein: each of the fins extends
distally beyond the annular distal surface of the second connector
portion.
9. The adapter of claim 8, wherein: each of the fins comprises an
arcuate, distal surface extending outwardly from the second
connector portion.
10. The adapter of claim 2, wherein: the plurality of external
threads comprises a first pitch diameter; the plurality of internal
threads comprises a second pitch diameter; and the first pitch
diameter is greater than the second pitch diameter.
11. The adapter of claim 10, further comprising: a longitudinal
centerline; wherein the first connector portion, the second
connector portion, and the transition portion are integrally formed
as a unitary structure; and the longitudinal centerline centrally
bisects the first connector portion, the second connector portion
and the transition portion.
12. The adapter of claim 11, wherein: the first connector portion,
the second connector portion, and the transition portion are
integrally formed from a polymeric material; the first connector
portion further comprises an annular proximal surface; and the
second connector portion further comprises an annular distal
surface.
13. The adapter of claim 6, wherein: the circumferentially spaced
fins, the first connector portion, the second connector portion,
and the transition portion, are integrally formed from a polymeric
material as a unitary structure.
14. (canceled)
15. (canceled)
16. (canceled)
17. (canceled)
18. (canceled)
19. (canceled)
20. (canceled)
21. A subassembly of a system for expressing breast milk, the
subassembly comprising: an adapter comprising a first connector
portion, a second connector portion, and a transition portion
extending between the first connector portion and the second
connector portion, the first connector portion comprising a first
inner surface and a first outer surface, the second connector
portion comprising a second inner surface, a second outer surface,
and a plurality of internal threads, the transition portion
comprising a third inner surface and a third outer surface, the
third inner surface of the transition portion tapering inwardly
toward the second inner surface of the second connector portion, at
least the first connector portion and the transition portion
cooperating to define an interior chamber; and a fluid container
comprising a bag and a spout attached to the bag, the bag being at
least partially collapsible, and expandable, the bag defining a
fluid chamber, the spout comprising a plurality of external threads
and defining a flow passage in fluid communication with the fluid
chamber; wherein the first connector portion of the adapter is
configured for connection to a pump assembly to facilitate
establishing at least intermittent fluid communication between an
outlet passage of a pump assembly and the interior chamber of the
adapter; and the plurality of internal threads of the second
connector portion of the adapter is configured for engagement with
the plurality of external threads of the spout of the fluid
container to facilitate establishing fluid communication between
the interior chamber defined by the adapter and the fluid chamber
defined by the bag of the fluid container, via the flow passage
defined by the spout of the fluid container.
22. The subassembly of claim 21, wherein: the first connector
portion of the adapter further comprises a plurality of external
threads; the third inner surface of the transition portion of the
adapter is generally cup-shaped; and the third inner surface of the
transition portion of the adapter blends smoothly with at least the
first inner surface of the first connector portion of the
adapter.
23. The subassembly of claim 22, wherein: the adapter further
comprises a plurality of circumferentially spaced fins; the first
connector portion of the adapter further comprises an annular
proximal surface; and the second connector portion of the adapter
further comprises an annular distal surface.
24. The subassembly of claim 23, wherein: each of the fins of the
adapter extends outwardly from at least one of the transition
portion of the adapter and the second connector portion of the
adapter.
25. The subassembly of claim 24, wherein: each of the fins of the
adapter comprises a linear, distal surface extending outwardly from
the annular distal surface of the second connector portion of the
adapter such that the linear, distal surface is coplanar with the
annular distal surface.
26. The subassembly of claim 24, wherein: each of the fins of the
adapter extends distally beyond the annular distal surface of the
second connector portion of the adapter.
27. The subassembly of claim 23, wherein: the plurality of external
threads of the first connector portion of the adapter comprises a
first pitch diameter; the plurality of internal threads of the
second connector portion of the adapter comprises a second pitch
diameter; and the first pitch diameter is greater than the second
pitch diameter.
28. The subassembly of claim 27, wherein: the first connector
portion of the adapter, the second connector portion of the
adapter, and the transition portion of the adapter, are integrally
formed from a polymeric material as a unitary structure.
29. The subassembly of claim 22, further comprising: a hood
defining an extraction chamber; a housing integral with the hood,
the housing defining at least one flow passage; a collar integral
with the housing, the collar comprising a plurality of internal
threads configured for engagement with the plurality of external
threads of the first connector portion of the adapter; and an
outlet structure integral with the housing and defining an outlet
passage, the at least one flow passage defined by the housing
establishing fluid communication between the outlet passage and the
extraction chamber.
30. The subassembly of claim 29, further comprising: a second
housing integral with the first housing, the second housing
defining a vacuum chamber, the vacuum chamber being in fluid
communication with each of the extraction chamber and the outlet
passage via the at least one flow passage defined by the
housing.
31. The subassembly of claim 22, further comprising: a cap
configured for engagement with the plurality of external threads of
the spout of the fluid container.
32. The subassembly of claim 22, further comprising: a nipple
configured for engagement with the plurality of external threads of
the spout of the fluid container.
33. (canceled)
34. (canceled)
35. (canceled)
36. (canceled)
37. (canceled)
38. (canceled)
39. (canceled)
40. (canceled)
41. (canceled)
42. (canceled)
43. (canceled)
44. (canceled)
45. (canceled)
46. (canceled)
47. (canceled)
48. (canceled)
49. (canceled)
50. (canceled)
51. (canceled)
52. (canceled)
53. (canceled)
54. (canceled)
55. A method of expressing breast milk comprising: pumping breast
milk into and through a flow passage defined by a threaded spout of
a fluid container, and into a fluid chamber defined by a bag of the
fluid container, the threaded spout being attached to the bag;
closing the fluid chamber by threading a cap onto the threaded
spout of the fluid container; and storing the fluid container in a
refrigerated space, for later use.
56. The method of claim 55, further comprising: removing the fluid
container from the refrigerated space; and heating the fluid
container to increase the temperature of the breast milk within the
fluid chamber.
57. The method of claim 56, further comprising: replacing the cap
with a nipple threaded onto the spout of the fluid container.
58. The method of claim 57, further comprising: surrounding at
least a portion of the bag of the fluid container with a receptacle
to facilitate holding the fluid container, the receptacle being at
least semi-rigid.
59. The method of claim 58, wherein: pumping comprises connecting
the adapter to each of a breast pump assembly and the fluid
container to establish at least intermittent fluid communication
between the fluid chamber defined by a bag of the fluid container
and an outlet passage defined by an outlet structure of the breast
pump assembly; and the method further comprises disconnecting the
adapter from the fluid container prior to closing the fluid
chamber.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present application relates to systems, components, and
methods for expressing breast milk.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Mothers often choose to breast-feed their infants for a
variety of reasons, e.g., to enhance the infant's immune system, to
provide nutrients to the infant without the additives present in
baby formula, and strengthening the bond between the mother and
infant. In some instances, it can be desirable to express the
breast milk, i.e., to obtain milk from the breast without the
infant suckling, e.g., to refrigerate the breast milk for later use
so that the infant can still have the benefits of breast milk when
someone other than the mother is caring for the infant. Systems for
expressing breast milk are known.
SUMMARY
[0003] According to one embodiment, an adapter includes a first
connector portion, a second connector portion and a transition
portion extending between the first connector portion and the
second connector portion. The first connector portion includes a
first inner surface and a first outer surface. The second connector
portion includes a second inner surface, a second outer surface,
and a plurality of internal threads. The transition portion
includes a third inner surface and a third outer surface. The third
inner surface of the transition portion tapers inwardly toward the
second inner surface of the second connector portion. At least the
first connector portion and the transition portion cooperate to
define an interior chamber configured to receive fluid. The first
connector portion is configured for connection to a pump assembly
to facilitate establishing at least intermittent fluid
communication between an outlet passage of a pump assembly and the
interior chamber. The second connector portion is configured for
connection, via the plurality of internal threads, to a spout of a
fluid container to facilitate establishing fluid communication
between the interior chamber and a chamber defined by a fluid
container.
[0004] According to another embodiment, a fluid container includes
a bag that includes a first longitudinal centerline. The bag is at
least partially collapsible, and is expandable. The fluid container
also includes a spout attached to the bag and offset from the first
longitudinal centerline. The spout includes a plurality of external
threads and a second longitudinal centerline spaced from the first
longitudinal centerline and parallel with the first longitudinal
centerline. The spout defines a fluid passage. The bag also
includes at least one plastic sheet attached to the spout, and
defines an interior chamber in fluid communication with the fluid
passage. The interior chamber is otherwise sealed.
[0005] According to another embodiment, a subassembly of a system
for expressing breast milk includes an adapter that includes a
first connector portion, a second connector portion, and a
transition portion extending between the first connector portion
and the second connector portion. The first connector portion
includes a first inner surface and a first outer surface. The
second connector portion includes a second inner surface, a second
outer surface, and a plurality of internal threads. The transition
portion includes a third inner surface and a third outer surface.
The third inner surface of the transition portion tapers inwardly
toward the second inner surface of the second connector portion. At
least the first connector portion and the transition portion
cooperate to define an interior chamber. The subassembly also
includes a fluid container that is threadedly connected to the
adapter. The fluid container includes a bag and a spout attached to
the bag. The bag is at least partially collapsible, and is
expandable. The bag defines a fluid chamber and the spout defines a
flow passage in fluid communication with the fluid chamber. The
spout includes a plurality of external threads. The first connector
portion of the adapter is configured for connection to a pump
assembly to facilitate establishing at least intermittent fluid
communication between an outlet passage of a pump assembly and the
interior chamber of the adapter. The plurality of internal threads
of the second connector portion of the adapter is engaged with the
plurality of external threads of the spout of the fluid container
such that fluid communication is established between the interior
chamber defined by the adapter and the fluid chamber defined by the
bag of the fluid container, via the flow passage defined by the
spout.
[0006] According to another embodiment, a subassembly of a system
for expressing breast milk includes a hood that defines an
extraction chamber, and a housing integral with the hood. The
housing defines at least one flow passage. The subassembly also
includes an outlet structure integral with the housing and defining
an outlet passage, and a collar that is integral with the housing.
The at least one flow passage defined by the housing establishes
fluid communication between the outlet passage and the extraction
chamber. The subassembly also includes an adapter that includes a
first connector portion, a second connector portion, and a
transition portion extending between the first connector portion
and the second connector portion. The first connector portion
includes a first inner surface and a first outer surface. The
second connector portion includes a second inner surface, a second
outer surface, and a plurality of internal threads. The transition
portion includes a third inner surface and a third outer surface.
The third inner surface of the transition portion tapers inwardly
toward the second inner surface of the second connector portion. At
least the first connector portion and the transition portion
cooperate to define an interior chamber. The first connector
portion of the adapter is connected to the collar to facilitate
establishing at least intermittent fluid communication between the
outlet passage defined by the outlet structure and the interior
chamber defined by the adapter, during operation of a breast pump.
The plurality of internal threads of the second connector portion
is configured for engagement with a plurality of external threads
of a spout of a fluid container.
[0007] According to another embodiment, a system for expressing
breast milk includes a breast pump assembly that includes a hood
defining an extraction chamber, a first housing integral with the
hood, and an outlet structure integral with the first housing and
defining an outlet passage in fluid communication with the
extraction chamber. The breast pump assembly also includes a breast
pump in fluid communication with each of the extraction chamber and
the outlet passage. The system also includes an adapter that
includes a first connector portion, a second connector portion, and
a transition portion extending between the first connector portion
and the second connector portion. At least the first connector
portion and the transition portion cooperate to define an interior
chamber. The system further includes a fluid container that
includes a bag and a spout attached to the bag. The bag is at least
partially collapsible, and is expandable. The bag defines a fluid
chamber, and the spout defines a flow passage in fluid
communication with the fluid chamber. The first connector portion
of the adapter is connected to the breast pump assembly, and the
second connector portion of the adapter is threadedly connected to
the spout of the fluid container, such that the fluid chamber
defined by the fluid container is in at least intermittent fluid
communication with the outlet passage defined by the outlet
structure of the breast pump assembly, during operation of the
breast pump.
[0008] According to another embodiment, a method of expressing
breast milk includes pumping breast milk into and through a flow
passage defined by a threaded spout of a fluid container, and into
a fluid chamber defined by a bag of the fluid container. The
threaded spout is attached to the bag. The method also includes
closing the fluid chamber by threading a cap onto the threaded
spout of the fluid container, and storing the fluid container in a
refrigerated space, for later use.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] Various embodiments will become better understood with
regard to the following description, appended claims and
accompanying drawings wherein:
[0010] FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of a system for
expressing breast milk;
[0011] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view depicting selected
components of the system of FIG. 1;
[0012] FIG. 3 is a perspective view depicting an adapter, according
to one embodiment, of the system of FIG. 1;
[0013] FIG. 4 is a bottom plan view of the adapter of FIG. 3;
[0014] FIG. 5 is a top plan view of the adapter of FIG. 3;
[0015] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 in
FIG. 5;
[0016] FIG. 7 is a side elevational view depicting an adapter
according to another embodiment;
[0017] FIG. 8 is a side perspective view depicting an adapter
according to yet another embodiment;
[0018] FIG. 9 is a side perspective view depicting an adapter
according to still another embodiment;
[0019] FIG. 10 is a side perspective view depicting an adapter
according to yet another embodiment;
[0020] FIG. 11 is a side perspective view depicting an adapter
according to still another embodiment;
[0021] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view depicting an adapter
according to still another embodiment;
[0022] FIG. 13 is a side elevational view, partially cut away,
depicting an adapter according to another embodiment;
[0023] FIG. 14 is an exploded, elevational view depicting an
adapter according to another embodiment, in association with a
portion of a breast pump assembly;
[0024] FIG. 15 is a front elevational view depicting the fluid
container of the system of FIG. 1, and further depicting a cap and
a nipple in association with, and spaced from, the fluid
container;
[0025] FIG. 16 is a perspective view depicting a fluid container
according to another embodiment, with a nipple secured to a spout
of the fluid container;
[0026] FIG. 17 is an exploded, side elevational view depicting a
fluid container according to another embodiment, in association
with an adapter according to another embodiment, and a nipple
according to another embodiment;
[0027] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view depicting the adapter of
FIG. 17;
[0028] FIG. 19 is a side elevational view depicting the components
of FIG. 17 in an assembled configuration, and depicting a
receptacle surrounding a portion of the fluid container;
[0029] FIG. 20 is a bottom plan view depicting the assembly of FIG.
19;
[0030] FIG. 21 is an exploded perspective view depicting the fluid
container of the system of FIG. 1, in association with a portion of
a breast pump assembly according to another embodiment;
[0031] FIG. 22 is a perspective view depicting a person's hand
placing the fluid container of the system of FIG. 1, with the fluid
container partially filled with breast milk, and capped, into a
refrigerator;
[0032] FIG. 23 is a perspective view depicting a person's hand
holding a receptacle containing the fluid container of FIG. 22,
under a stream of water to raise the temperature of the breast milk
within the fluid container;
[0033] FIG. 24 is a right, front perspective view of a receptacle
according to one embodiment;
[0034] FIG. 25 is a left, rear perspective view of the receptacle
of FIG. 24;
[0035] FIG. 26 is a top plan view of the receptacle of FIG. 24;
[0036] FIG. 27 is a right, front perspective view of the receptacle
of FIG. 24 in association with a fluid container, a nipple and an
adapter, with the nipple shown cross-section; and
[0037] FIG. 28 is a fragmentary top plan view illustrating a
portion of the assembly of FIG. 27, with the nipple and the adapter
removed for clarity of illustration.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0038] Referring to the drawings, wherein like numbers indicate the
same or corresponding elements throughout the views, FIG. 1
illustrates a system 10 for expressing breast milk, according to
one embodiment. System 10 can include a breast pump assembly 12, a
fluid container 14, and an adapter 16, according to one embodiment.
The adapter 16 can be connected to each of the breast pump assembly
12 and the fluid container 14. The breast pump assembly 12 can
include a hood 18, which can define an extraction chamber 20 (FIG.
2). The hood 18 and extraction chamber 20 can be configured such
that the hood 18 can engage a breast in at least substantially
sealing engagement, with a portion of the breast, including the
nipple, being disposed within the extraction chamber 20. As shown
in FIG. 2, the breast pump assembly 12 can further include a first
housing 22, which can define at least one flow passage 24, and an
outlet structure 26, which can define an outlet passage 28. The
first housing 22 can be integral with the hood 18, i.e., formed
separately but in contact with the hood 18 and attached to the hood
18, or integrally formed with the hood 18 as a unitary structure.
The outlet structure 26 can be attached to the first housing 22 in
an interference fit, but can be selectively removed to facilitate
cleaning of the extraction chamber 20. In one alternative
embodiment, the outlet structure 26 can be integrally formed with
the first housing 22 as a unitary component. The outlet structure
26 can include a housing 30 and a valve member 32. The valve member
32 can be a relatively thin and flexible diaphragm, which can be
movable relative to the housing 30.
[0039] The breast pump assembly 12 can also include a second
housing 34, which can be integral with the first housing 22, and
can define a vacuum chamber 36 (FIG. 2). The breast pump assembly
12 can also include a breast pump. In one embodiment, the breast
pump can be a remote pump 38, which can be remotely positioned
relative to the remainder of the breast pump assembly 12, as
schematically illustrated in FIG. 1. The remote pump 38 can be an
electric pump and can be in fluid communication with the vacuum
chamber 36, for example via a conduit 40 that can be connected at
one end to the remote pump 38 and can be connected at an opposite
end to the second housing 34. Alternatively, the breast pump of the
breast pump assembly 12 can be a local pump 42, which can be
locally mounted, for example, to the second housing 34, or another
structure of the breast pump assembly 12. The local pump 42 can be
in fluid communication with the vacuum chamber 36 defined by the
second housing 34. In one embodiment, the local pump 42 can be a
manual pump. In another embodiment, the local pump can be an
electric pump. The breast pump assembly 12 can also include a
collar 44, which can be integral with the first housing 22. In one
embodiment, the collar 44 can include a plurality of internal
threads 46 (FIG. 2).
[0040] The fluid container 14 can include a bag 50, which can
define a fluid chamber 52. The bag 50 can be at least partially
collapsible, and can be expandable, such that the fluid chamber 52
can have a predetermined, maximum volume. The fluid container 14
can also include a perimeter flange 54, which can extend at least
partially around a perimeter of the bag 50. The fluid container 14
can also include a spout 56, which can be attached to the bag 50.
The spout 56 can include a plurality of external threads 58, and
can define a fluid passage 60 (FIG. 2). The fluid chamber 52
defined by the bag 50 can be in fluid communication with the fluid
passage 60, and can be otherwise sealed, such that a caretaker
using the fluid container 14 cannot create an opening (other than
through the spout 56) without destroying the bag 50. The bag 50 can
include at least one plastic sheet, using any suitable plastic
material. In one embodiment, bag 50 can include two plastic sheets,
which can be attached to one another and to the spout 56, e.g.,
using a heat-sealing process and/or adhesive. The two plastic
sheets can cooperate to define the interior chamber 52 and can form
at least a portion of the perimeter flange 54 of the fluid
container 14. The bag 50 can also include graduated indicia,
indicated generally at 53, which can indicate the volume of fluid,
e.g., breast milk, within the fluid chamber 52, as measured in
ounces or milliliters, for example.
[0041] Referring to FIGS. 3-6, the adapter 16 can include a first
connector portion 62, a second connector portion 64, and a
transition portion 66, which can extend between the first connector
portion 62 and the second connector portion 64. As shown in FIG. 6,
the first connector portion 62 can include an inner surface 68, an
outer surface 69, and a plurality of external threads 70, which can
extend away from the outer surface 69. The second connector portion
64 can include an inner surface 72, an outer surface 73, and a
plurality of internal threads 74. The external threads 70 can have
a pitch diameter d.sub.1 which can be greater than a pitch diameter
d.sub.2 of the internal threads 74, as shown in FIG. 6. It will be
appreciated that a plurality of threads, as described herein, can
include one or more raised or indented features that extend
helically or generally helically about at least a significant
portion of a circumference of an object, and in some cases more
than once about a circumference of an object, in a continuous or
discontinuous configuration.
[0042] The transition portion 66 of adapter 16 can include an inner
surface 76 and an outer surface 77. As shown in FIG. 6, the inner
surface 76 of the transition portion 66 can taper inwardly toward
the inner surface 72 of the second connector portion 64. The inner
surface 76 of the transition portion 66 can be generally cup-shaped
and can blend smoothly with at least the inner surface 68 of the
first connector portion 62 of adapter 16, as shown in FIG. 6. The
outer surface 77 of the transition portion 66 can also be generally
cup-shaped, as shown in FIG. 6. At least the first connector
portion 62 and the transition portion 66 of adapter 16 can
cooperate to define an interior chamber 78, which can be configured
to receive fluid, for example, breast milk. The adapter 16 can
include a longitudinal centerline 80. In one embodiment, the
longitudinal centerline 80 can centrally bisect each of the first
connector portion 62, the second connector portion 64 and the
transition portion 66 of the adapter 16, as shown in FIG. 6.
[0043] The adapter 16 can be threadedly connected to each of the
fluid container 14 and the breast pump assembly 12. In one
embodiment, the internal threads 74 of the second connector portion
64 of adapter 16 can engage the external threads 58 of spout 56 of
fluid container 14, such that the second connector portion 64 of
the adapter 16 is connected to the fluid container 14, and the
fluid passage 60 defined by the spout 56 of fluid container 14 is
in fluid communication with the interior chamber 78 defined by the
adapter 16, which establishes fluid communication between the
interior chamber 78 and the fluid chamber 52 defined by the bag 50
of the fluid container 14. The external threads 70 of the first
connector portion 62 of the adapter 16 can be engaged with the
internal threads 46 of the collar 44 of the breast pump assembly
12, such that the first connector portion 62 is connected to the
collar 44, which connects the adapter 16 to the breast pump
assembly 12.
[0044] When the first connector portion 62 is connected to the
collar 44, at least a portion of the outlet structure 26 of the
breast pump assembly 12, including the valve member 32, can be
positioned within the interior chamber 78 defined by the adapter
16. As a result, the interior chamber 78 and the fluid chamber 52
defined by the bag 50 of the fluid container 14, can be in
intermittent fluid communication with the outlet passage 28 defined
by the outlet structure 26 of the breast pump assembly 12 during
operation of the breast pump (e.g., 38, 42) of the breast pump
assembly 12. During operation of either the remote pump 38 or the
local pump 42, a negative pressure, or vacuum, can intermittently
exist within the vacuum chamber 36, the outlet passage 28, flow
passage 24 and the extraction chamber 20, of the breast pump
assembly 12. When a negative pressure, or vacuum, exists within the
vacuum chamber 36, outlet passage 28, flow passage 24 and
extraction chamber 20, the valve member 32 can be forced into a
closed position against the housing 30 of the outlet structure 26,
and breast milk can be drawn into the extraction chamber 20, and
into the outlet passage 28 via the flow passage 24. When the
negative pressure, or vacuum, is released, the expressed, or
extracted, breast milk can flow out of the outlet passage 28 into
the interior chamber 78 defined by the adapter 16, under the action
of gravity and/or as a result of intermittent positive pressure
within the outlet passage 28 forcing the valve member 32 open. The
expressed breast milk can then flow through the fluid passage 60
defined by spout 56 of fluid container 14, and into the fluid
chamber 52 defined by the bag 50 of fluid container 14.
[0045] FIGS. 7-14 illustrate adapters according to other
embodiments, which can be used in lieu of the adapter 16 in
conjunction with the breast pump assembly 12 and fluid container
14, or in conjunction with breast pump assemblies and/or fluid
containers according to other embodiments. FIG. 7 illustrates an
adapter 116 according to another embodiment. Adapter 116 can be
configured the same as, or similar to, adapter 16, except for the
addition of a plurality of circumferentially spaced fins 184.
Similar to the adapter 16, the adapter 116 can include a first
connector portion 162, a second connector portion 164 and a
transition portion 166, which can extend between the first
connector portion 162 and the second connector portion 164. The
first connector portion 162 can include an inner surface (not
shown), an outer surface 169 and a plurality of external threads
170, which can extend outwardly from the outer surface 169. The
first connector portion 162 can also include an annular proximal
surface 163.
[0046] The second connector portion 164 can include an inner
surface (not shown), an outer surface 173, and a plurality of
internal threads (not shown). The second connector portion 164 can
also include an annular distal surface 165. The transition portion
166 of adapter 116 can include an inner surface (not shown) and an
outer surface 177. The inner surface of the transition portion 166
can taper inwardly toward the inner surface of the second connector
portion 164, and can blend smoothly with at least the inner surface
of the first connector portion 162. At least the first connector
portion 162 and the transition portion 166 can cooperate to define
an interior chamber (not shown) configured to receive fluid. Each
of the fins 184 can be integral with at least the second connector
portion 164, and can extend outwardly from the outer surface 173 of
the second connector portion 164, as shown in FIG. 7. Each of the
fins 184 can extend distally beyond the annular distal surface 165
of the second connector portion 164. As a result, the adapter 116
can be placed on a support surface (not shown), with the adapter
116 oriented as shown in FIG. 7, such that the fins 184 can contact
the support surface and the annular distal surface 165 of the
second connector portion 164 can be spaced from the support
surface, which can facilitate preventing the second connector
portion 164 from becoming contaminated.
[0047] FIG. 8 illustrates an adapter 216 according to another
embodiment. Adapter 216 can be configured the same as, or similar
to, adapter 16, except for the addition of a plurality of
circumferentially spaced fins 284. Similar to the adapter 16, the
adapter 216 can include a first connector portion 262, a second
connector portion 264 and a transition portion 266, which can
extend between the first connector portion 262 and the second
connector portion 264. The first connector portion 262 can include
an inner surface 268, an outer surface 269, and a plurality of
external threads 270, which can extend outwardly from the outer
surface 269. The first connector portion 262 can also include an
annular proximal surface 263.
[0048] The second connector portion 264 can include an inner
surface (not shown), an outer surface 273, an annular distal
surface 265, and a plurality of internal threads (not shown). The
transition portion 266 of adapter 216 can include an inner surface
(not shown) and an outer surface 277. The inner surface of the
transition portion 266 can taper inwardly toward the inner surface
of the second connector portion 264, and can blend smoothly with at
least the inner surface of the first connector portion 262. At
least the first connector portion 262 and the transition portion
266 can cooperate to define an interior chamber 278 configured to
receive fluid. Each of the fins 284 can extend outwardly from each
of the second connector portion 264 and the transition portion 266.
In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8, each of the fins 284 can
extend radially outwardly from each of the second connector portion
264 and the transition portion 266. Each of the fins 284 can
include a distal surface 285, which can extend outwardly from the
annular distal surface 265 of the second connector portion 264. In
one embodiment, the distal surface 285 of each fin 284 can be
linear, and can extend outwardly from the annular distal surface
265 of the second connector portion 264 such that the distal
surface 285 of each of the fins 284 can be coplanar with the
annular distal surface 265 of the second connector portion 264, as
shown in FIG. 8. This configuration can enhance the stability of
the adapter 216 when the adapter 216 is placed on a support
surface, with the distal surface 285 of each of the fins 284, and
the annular distal surface 265 of the second connector portion 264,
contacting the support surface. Fins 284 can facilitate grasping
the adapter 216.
[0049] FIG. 9 illustrates an adapter 316, according to another
embodiment. Adapter 316 can be configured the same as, or similar
to, adapter 16, except for the addition of a plurality of
circumferentially spaced fins 384. Similar to the adapter 16, the
adapter 316 can include a first connector portion 362, a second
connector portion 364 and a transition portion 366, which can
extend between the first connector portion 362 and the second
connector portion 364. The first connector portion 362 can include
an inner surface (not shown), an outer surface 369 and a plurality
of external threads 370, which can extend outwardly from the outer
surface 369. The first connector portion 362 can also include an
annular proximal surface 363.
[0050] The second connector portion 364 can include an inner
surface (not shown), an outer surface 373, and a plurality of
internal threads (not shown). The transition portion 366 can
include an inner surface (not shown) and an outer surface 377. The
inner surface of the transition portion 366 can taper inwardly
toward the inner surface of the second connector portion 364, and
can blend smoothly with at least the inner surface of the first
connector portion 362. At least the first connector portion 362 and
the transition portion 366 can cooperate to define an interior
chamber 378, which can be configured to receive fluid. The second
connector portion 364 can also include an annular distal surface
365. Each of the fins 384 can be integral with, and can extend
outwardly from, each of the second connector portion 364 and the
transition portion 366 of the adapter 316. In one embodiment, each
of the fins 384 can extend radially outwardly from each of the
second connector portion 364 and the transition portion 366. Each
of the fins 384 can include a distal surface 385, which can extend
outwardly from the second connector portion 364, as shown in FIG.
9. In one embodiment, the distal surface 385 can be arcuate, and
can extend distally beyond the annular distal surface 365 of the
second connector portion 364, as shown in FIG. 9. As a result, when
the adapter 316 is placed on a support surface, the fins 384 can
contact the support surface and the annular distal surface 365 of
the second connector portion 364 can be spaced from the support
surface, which can facilitate preventing the second connector
portion 364 from becoming contaminated.
[0051] FIG. 10 illustrates an adapter 416, according to another
embodiment. Adapter 416 can be configured the same as, or similar
to, adapter 16, except for the addition of a plurality of
circumferentially spaced fins 484. Similar to the adapter 16, the
adapter 416 can include a first connector portion 462, a second
connector portion 464, and a transition portion 466, which can
extend between the first connector portion 462 and the second
connector portion 464. The first connector portion 462 can include
an inner surface 468, an outer surface 469 and plurality of
external threads 470, which can extend outwardly from the outer
surface 469. The first connector portion 462 can also include an
annular proximal surface 463.
[0052] The second connector portion 464 can include an inner
surface 472, an outer surface 473, an annular distal surface 465,
and a plurality of internal threads 474. The transition portion 466
can include an inner surface 476 and an outer surface (not shown).
The inner surface 476 of the transition portion 466 can taper
inwardly toward the inner surface 472 of the second connector
portion 464, and can blend smoothly with at least the inner surface
468 of the first connector portion 462. At least the first
connector portion 462 and the transition portion 466 can cooperate
to define an interior chamber that can be configured to receive
fluid. Each of the fins 484 can be integral with, and can extend
distally from, the first connector portion 462, and can extend
distally beyond the annular distal surface 465 of the second
connector portion 464, as shown in FIG. 10. As a result, when the
adapter 416 is placed on a support surface, the fins 484 can
contact the support surface and the annular distal surface 465 of
the second connector portion 464 can be spaced from the support
surface, which can facilitate preventing the second connector
portion 464 from becoming contaminated. Adapters can be provided
that include circumferentially spaced fins that are configured and
positioned other than as shown in the embodiments of FIGS.
7-10.
[0053] FIG. 11 illustrates an adapter 516 according to another
embodiment. Similar to the adapter 16, the adapter 516 can include
a first connector portion 562, a second connector portion 564, and
a transition portion 566, which can extend between the first
connector portion 562 and the second connector portion 564. The
first connector portion 562 can include an inner surface 568, an
outer surface 569, and a plurality of external threads 570, which
can extend away from the outer surface 569. The second connector
portion 564 can include an inner surface 572, an outer surface 573,
and a plurality of internal threads 574. The external threads 570
can have a pitch diameter that can be greater than a pitch diameter
of the internal threads 574, as shown in FIG. 11. The transition
portion 566 can include an inner surface 576 and an outer surface
577. The inner surface 576 of the transition portion 566 can taper
inwardly toward the inner surface 572 of the second connector
portion 564. Unlike the adapter 16, each of the inner surface 576
and the outer surface 577 of the transition portion 566 can have a
frusto-conical shape. At least the first connector portion 562 and
the transition portion 566 can cooperate to define an interior
chamber (not shown), which can be configured to receive fluid, for
example, breast milk.
[0054] The adapter 516 can be threadedly connected to each of the
fluid container 14 and the breast pump assembly 12. In one
embodiment, the internal threads 574 of the second connector
portion 564 can engage the external threads 58 of the spout 56 of
the fluid container 14, and the external threads 570 of the first
connector portion 562 can engage the internal threads 46 of the
collar 44 of the breast pump assembly 12, such that the interior
chamber (not shown) defined by the adapter 516 can be in fluid
communication with the fluid chamber 52 defined by the bag 50 of
the fluid container 14, and can be in at least intermittent fluid
communication with the outlet passage 28 of the outlet structure 26
of the breast pump assembly 12.
[0055] FIG. 12 illustrates an adapter 616 according to another
embodiment. Similar to adapter 16, the adapter 616 can include a
first connector portion 662, a second connector portion 664, and a
transition portion 666, which can extend between the first
connector portion 662 and the second connector portion 664. The
first connector portion 662 can include an inner surface 668, an
outer surface 669, and a plurality of external threads 670. The
second connector portion 664 can include an inner surface 672, an
outer surface 673, and a plurality of internal threads 674. The
transition portion 666 can include an inner surface 676 and an
outer surface 677. Unlike the adapter 16, the inner surface 676 of
the of the transition portion 666 does not taper inwardly toward
the inner surface 672 of the second connector portion 664. Instead,
the inner surface 676 can include a first portion 679, which can
have a cylindrical shape, and can include a second portion 681,
which can have an annular shape and can extend between the first
portion 679 of the inner surface 676 of the transition portion 666,
and the inner surface 672 of the second connector portion 674. In
one embodiment, the first portion 679 of the inner surface 676 can
be perpendicular to the second portion 681 of the inner surface
676, as shown in FIG. 12. At least the first connector portion 662
and the transition portion 666 can cooperate to define an interior
chamber 678, which can be configured to receive fluid, for example,
breast milk.
[0056] The plurality of internal threads 674 of the second
connector portion 664 can be engaged with the external threads 58
of the spout 56 of fluid container 14, to connect the adapter 16 to
the fluid container 14, such that the interior chamber 678 defined
by the adapter 616 is in fluid communication with the fluid chamber
52 defined by the bag 50 of the fluid container 14. The plurality
of external threads 670 of the first connector portion 662 can be
engaged with the plurality of internal threads 46 of the collar 44
of the breast pump assembly 12, such that the interior chamber 678
defined by the adapter 616 can be in at least intermittent fluid
communication with the outlet passage 28 defined by the outlet
structure 26 of the breast pump assembly 12. As a result of the
connection of the adapter 616 to the fluid container 14 and the
breast pump assembly 12, the fluid chamber 52 defined by the bag 50
of the fluid container 14, can be in at least intermittent fluid
communication with the outlet passage 28 defined by the outlet
structure 26 of the breast pump assembly 12.
[0057] FIG. 13 illustrates an adapter 716 according to another
embodiment. The adapter 716 can include a first connector portion
762, a second connector portion 764, and a transition portion 766,
which can extend between the first connector portion 762 and the
second connector portion 764. The first connector portion 762 can
include an inner surface 768 and an outer surface 769. Unlike the
first connector portion 62 of adapter 16, which is shown to include
a plurality of external threads 70, the first connector portion 762
of adapter 716 can include a plurality of internal threads 771. The
second connector portion 764 can include an inner surface 772, an
outer surface 773, and a plurality of internal threads 774. The
transition portion 766 can include an inner surface 776 and an
outer surface 777. The inner surface 776 of the transition portion
766 can taper inwardly toward the inner surface 772 of the second
connector portion 764. However, unlike the inner surface 76 of the
transition portion 66 of adapter 16, the inner surface 776 can have
a frusto-conical shape. As shown in FIG. 13, the adapter 716 does
not have a uniform wall thickness. In particular, the wall
thickness of the transition portion 766 of connector 716 is shown
to vary. At least the first connector portion 762 and the
transition portion 766 can cooperate to define an interior chamber
778, which can be configured to receive fluid, for example, breast
milk.
[0058] The plurality of internal threads 774 of the second
connector portion 764 can be engaged with the plurality of external
threads 58 of the spout 56 of fluid container 14, to connect the
adapter 716 to the fluid container 14, such that the interior
chamber 778 defined by the adapter 716 is in fluid communication
with the fluid chamber 52 defined by the bag 50 of the fluid
container 14. The internal threads 771 of the first connector
portion 762 can engage mating external threads of a component of a
breast pump assembly to connect the adapter 716 to the breast pump
assembly. For example, in one embodiment, the collar 44 of the
breast pump assembly 12 can include a plurality of external threads
(not shown) instead of the plurality of internal threads 46, which
can engage the plurality of internal threads 771 of the first
connector portion 762, such that the interior chamber 778 defined
by the adapter 716 and the fluid chamber 52 defined by the fluid
container 14 are in at least intermittent fluid communication with
the outlet passage 28 defined by the outlet structure 26, during
operation of the breast pump (e.g., 38, 42) of the breast pump
assembly 12.
[0059] FIG. 14 illustrates an adapter 816 according to another
embodiment, and a portion of a breast pump assembly according to
another embodiment. The adapter 816 can include a first connector
portion 862, a second connector portion 864 and a transition
portion 866, which can extend between the first connector portion
862 and the second connector portion 864. The first connector
portion 862 can include an inner surface 868 and an outer surface
869. Unlike adapter 16, the first connector portion 862 can include
a plurality of circumferentially spaced pins 861, in lieu of the
plurality of external threads 70 of the first connector portion 62
of the adapter 16. The plurality of circumferentially spaced pins
861 can extend outwardly from the outer surface 869 and can connect
the adapter 816 to a collar 144 (FIG. 14) of the breast pump
assembly, as subsequently described. The second connector portion
864 can include an inner surface 872, an outer surface 873, and a
plurality of internal threads 874. The transition portion 866 can
include an inner surface 876 and an outer surface 877. The inner
surface 876 of the transition portion 866 can taper inwardly toward
the inner surface 872 of the second connector portion 864. Unlike
the inner surface 76 of the transition portion 66 of the adapter
16, the inner surface 876 of the transition portion 866 of adapter
816 can have a frusto-conical shape. At least the first connector
portion 862 and the transition portion 866 can define an interior
chamber (not shown), which can be configured to receive fluid, for
example, breast milk.
[0060] The adapter 816 can be connected to each of the fluid
container 14 and the breast pump assembly that includes collar 144.
In one embodiment, the plurality of internal threads 874 of the
second connector portion 864 can engage the plurality of external
threads 58 of spout 56 of the fluid container 14, such that the
interior chamber defined by the adapter 816 is in fluid
communication with the fluid chamber 52 defined by the bag 50 of
fluid container 14. The collar 144 of the breast pump assembly can
have a different configuration than the collar 44 of the breast
pump assembly 12. For example, the collar 144, which can be
integral with a housing 122, can define a plurality of
circumferentially spaced slots 148. Each of the slots 148 can be
configured to receive a respective one of the pins 861 of the first
connector portion 862, and to releasably lock the respective pin
861 in position, to connect the adapter 816 to collar 144.
[0061] The adapter 816 can be connected to the collar 144 by
aligning each of the pins 861 with an entrance of a respective one
of the slots 148, as shown in FIG. 14 with regard to one of the
pins 861 and one of the slots 148, inserting each pin 861 into the
entrance of the respective slot 148, and then rotating the adapter
816 relative to the collar 144, as indicated generally by arrow 149
in FIG. 14. The breast pump assembly can be otherwise configured
the same as, or similar to, the breast pump assembly 12. As a
result of the connection of the adapter 816 to each of the fluid
container 14 and the collar 144 of the breast pump assembly, the
interior chamber defined by the adapter 816 and the fluid chamber
52 defined by the bag 50 of the fluid container 14 can be in at
least intermittent fluid communication with an outlet passage (not
shown) of the breast pump assembly. Pins similar to, or the same
as, pins 861 can be used in conjunction with adapters having other
configurations. Also, it will be appreciated that an adapter can be
selectively, removably connected to a breast pump assembly in a
variety of other configurations, that may or may not include
threads, and/or friction fit, etc.
[0062] FIG. 15 illustrates the fluid container 14 of the system 10,
after the fluid chamber 52 has been partially filled with breast
milk 99. A first portion 51 of the bag 50 of the fluid container 14
can be transparent, to facilitate viewing the breast milk 99 within
the fluid chamber 52, as shown in FIG. 15. The graduated indicia 53
of bag 50, can indicate the volume of breast milk 99 within the
fluid chamber 52, as measured in ounces, for example. The bag 50
can also include a second portion 55, which can be opaque. Various
information, e.g., the date the breast milk 99 was obtained, can be
applied to the second portion 55 of the bag 50, such as with a pen.
The sizes and shapes of the first portion 51 and the second portion
55 of bag 50 can be different than those shown. Also, the size and
shape of bag 50 can be different than that shown. In other
embodiments, the bag 50 can be entirely transparent, entirely
translucent, entirely opaque, partially transparent and partially
translucent, or partially translucent and partially opaque.
[0063] After the fluid container 14 has been filled with the
desired amount of breast milk 99, the fluid chamber 52 can be
closed by threading a cap, for example cap 84 shown in FIG. 15,
onto the spout 56 of fluid container 14. The cap 84 can include a
plurality of internal threads 86, which can engage the plurality of
external threads 58 of spout 56. The fluid container 14 can then be
refrigerated for later use, as subsequently described.
Alternatively, in the event that it is desired to use the breast
milk 99 immediately, or within a relatively short period of time
after filling the fluid chamber 52 to the desired level, a nipple,
for example nipple 88 shown in FIG. 15, can be threaded onto the
spout 56 of the fluid container 14. In this regard, the nipple 88
can include a collar 89 that can include a plurality of internal
threads 90, which can engage the plurality of external threads 58
of the spout 56.
[0064] FIG. 16 illustrates a fluid container 114 according to
another embodiment, which can be the same as, or similar to, the
fluid container 14, except that the fluid container 114 can include
a strap 115, which can be attached to a bag 150 of the fluid
container 114. The strap 115 can form a loop, as shown in FIG. 16,
which can facilitate holding the fluid container 114. Similar to
the fluid container 14, the bag 150 of the fluid container 114 can
include a first portion 151, which can be transparent, and can
include a second portion 155, which can be opaque. The sizes and
shapes of the first portion 151 and the second portion 155 can
vary. In other embodiments, the bag 150 can be entirely
transparent, entirely translucent, entirely opaque, partially
transparent and partially translucent, or partially translucent and
partially opaque. The fluid container 114 can also include
graduated indicia 153, which can be applied to the first portion
151 to facilitate determining the volume of breast milk 99 within a
fluid chamber 152 defined by the bag 150. The strap 115 can be
attached to the second portion 155 of the bag 150, such that the
strap 115 does not interfere with viewing the volume of breast milk
99 within the fluid chamber 152. It will be appreciated that one or
more straps can be provided in any of a variety of other suitable
configurations (e.g., one or more finger loops) and locations. The
fluid container 114 can include a spout 156 that can be attached to
the bag 150 of fluid container 114. The spout 156 can include a
plurality of external threads (not shown) and can define a flow
passage (not shown) that can be in fluid communication with fluid
chamber 152. A nipple 188 can be threaded onto the spout 156, as
shown in FIG. 16, to facilitate dispensing of the breast milk 99
from the fluid chamber 152. The strap 115 can assist a caretaker in
holding the fluid container 114 during the pouring process.
[0065] FIG. 17 illustrates a fluid container 214 according to
another embodiment, in association with an adapter 916 and a nipple
288. The adapter 916 can be connected, for example threadedly
connected, to each of the fluid container 214 and the nipple 288
such that breast milk (not shown) contained within the fluid
container 214 can be dispensed through the nipple 288. The fluid
container 214 can include a bag 250 and a spout 256 attached to the
bag 250. The bag 250 can define a fluid chamber 252 (FIGS. 17 and
20) and the spout 256 can define a fluid passage 260 (FIG. 28). The
bag 250 can be at least partially collapsible, and can be
expandable, such that the fluid chamber 252 can have a
predetermined, maximum volume. The fluid chamber 252 defined by the
bag 250 of fluid container 214 can be in fluid communication with
the fluid passage 260 defined by the spout 256, and can be
otherwise sealed, such that a caretaker using the fluid container
214 cannot create an opening (other than through the spout 256)
without destroying the bag 250.
[0066] The fluid container 214 can also include a perimeter flange
254, which can at least partially surround the bag 250. The bag 250
can include at least one plastic sheet, using any suitable plastic
material. In one embodiment, the bag 250 can include two plastic
sheets, which can be attached to one another and to the spout 256,
e.g., using a heat-sealing process and/or adhesive. The two plastic
sheets can cooperate to define the interior chamber 252 and can
form at least a portion of the perimeter flange 254.
[0067] At least a portion of the bag 250 can be transparent. In one
embodiment, the bag 250 can be entirely transparent, as shown in
FIGS. 17, 19 and 20, which can facilitate viewing breast milk
within the fluid chamber 252. In another embodiment, the fluid
container 214 can include a first, transparent portion and a
second, opaque portion. Various information, such as the date any
breast milk within the bag 250 of fluid container 214 was obtained,
can be applied to the opaque portion, such as with a pen. The bag
250 can also include graduated indicia (not shown), which can be
located on a transparent portion of bag 250, and can indicate the
volume of fluid, e.g., breast milk, within the fluid chamber 252,
as measured in ounces or milliliters, for example. In other
embodiments, the bag 250 can be entirely translucent, entirely
opaque, partially transparent and partially translucent, or
partially translucent and partially opaque.
[0068] The bag 250 can include a longitudinal centerline 259, as
shown in FIG. 17. The spout 256 can include a plurality of external
threads 258 and at least one flange 247. In one embodiment, the
spout 256 can include two of the flanges 247, which can be
longitudinally spaced, as shown in FIG. 17. The size and shape of
the flanges 247, as well as the longitudinal spacing between the
flanges 247, can be different than that shown. The spout 256 can be
offset from the longitudinal centerline 259 of the bag 250. The
spout 256 can include a longitudinal centerline 257, which can be
laterally spaced from the longitudinal centerline 259 of the bag
250. In one embodiment, the longitudinal centerline 257 of the
spout 256 can be parallel with the longitudinal centerline 259 of
the bag 250, as shown in FIG. 17. This configuration can provide
enhanced ergonomics when feeding an infant from the fluid container
214 and can at least reduce residual milk within the fluid
container 214 after feeding, for example, as compared to at least
some fluid containers that do not include offset spouts.
[0069] Referring to FIG. 18, the adapter 916 can include a first
connector portion 962, a second connector portion 964, and a
transition portion 966 that can extend between the first connector
portion 962 and the second connector portion 964. The first
connector portion 962 can include an inner surface 968, an outer
surface 969, and a plurality of external threads 970, which can
extend away from the outer surface 969. The second connector
portion 964 can include an inner surface 972, an outer surface 973,
and a plurality of internal threads 974. The transition portion 966
can include an inner surface 976 and an outer surface 977. At least
the first connector portion 962 and the transition portion 966 can
define an interior chamber 978.
[0070] As shown in FIG. 18, a pitch diameter of the external
threads 970 of the first connector portion 962 can be larger than a
pitch diameter of the internal threads 974 of the second connector
portion 964. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 18, the pitch
diameter of the external threads 970 can be significantly larger
than the pitch diameter of the internal threads 974. The relative
pitch diameters of the external threads 970 and internal threads
974 can permit the interconnection of the nipple 288 and spout 256,
via the adapter 916 even though the external threads 258 of spout
256 can be significantly smaller than the internal threads (not
shown) of the nipple 288. This permits fluid to be efficiently
dispensed from the fluid chamber 252 defined by the bag 250 of
fluid container 214, through the nipple 288. Adapter 916 allows use
of the fluid container 214 with a nipple (e.g., 288) having the
same thread configuration as the internal threads 46 of the collar
44 of breast pump assembly 12. Alternatively, other adapters (e.g.,
16) can be used in lieu of adapter 916.
[0071] FIGS. 19 and 20 illustrate a receptacle 92 according to one
embodiment, which can be used in association with the fluid
container 214, to facilitate holding and controlling the fluid
container 214 during feeding of an infant. The receptacle 92 can be
formed from a rigid, or semi-rigid material, e.g., any suitable
plastic material, using any suitable molding process. As shown in
FIG. 20, the receptacle 92 can define an interior cavity 93, which
can be configured to receive a portion of the bag 250 of the fluid
container 214, e.g., a shape of the interior cavity 93 can be
complementary with a shape of at least a portion of the bag 250. In
other embodiments, receptacles can be provided that are configured
other than as shown, for receiving a fluid container (e.g., 14, 114
and 214), and can be releasably connected to a fluid container
(e.g., 14, 114 and 214). Use of a receptacle such as receptacle 92
can enable a caretaker to hold the associated fluid container
(e.g., 214) without squeezing breast milk out of the fluid
container (e.g., 214), which may otherwise occur in view of the
flexible construction of the bag of the fluid container (e.g., bag
250 of fluid container 214).
[0072] FIGS. 24-26 illustrate a receptacle 192 according to another
embodiment. The receptacle 192 can define an interior cavity 193
that can be configured to receive a fluid container, e.g., 214,
such that at least a portion of a bag of a fluid container, e.g.,
bag 250 of fluid container 214, can be positioned within the
interior cavity 193. The receptacle 192 can be formed from a rigid,
or semi-rigid material, e.g., any suitable plastic material, using
any suitable molding process. The configuration and rigidity of
receptacle 192 can facilitate holding an associated fluid container
(e.g., 214) during feeding of an infant, without squeezing breast
milk out of the associated fluid container (e.g., 214).
[0073] The receptacle 192 can include a first side wall 101, a
second side wall 102 spaced from the first side wall 101, and a
first end wall 103, which can be integral with, and can extend
between, the first side wall 101 and the second side wall 102. The
receptacle 192 can also include a second end wall 104, which can be
integral with, and can extend between, the first side wall 101 and
the second side wall 102. In one embodiment, the receptacle 192 can
include a first end 105 and a fluid-container-support structure
106, which can be longitudinally spaced from the first end 105. The
fluid-container-support structure 106 can be integral with at least
the first side wall 101 and the second side wall 102. In one
embodiment, the fluid-container-support structure 106 can be
integral with each of the first side wall 101, the second side wall
102, and the first end wall 103. In one embodiment, the first side
wall 101, the second side wall 102, the first end wall 103, the
second end wall 104 and the fluid-container-support structure 106
can be integrally formed, for example, from any suitable plastic
material, as a unitary structure.
[0074] The fluid-container-support structure 106 can include an end
portion 107. The end portion 107 can define an aperture 108 (FIGS.
24 and 26), which can communicate with the interior cavity 193. The
end portion 107 can include a first rail 109 and a second rail 117,
which can be spaced from the first rail 109. As shown in FIG. 26,
each of the first rail 109 and the second rail 117 can be adjacent
to the aperture 108. The end portion 107 can also include a ledge
119 (FIG. 26), which can extend between the first rail 109 and the
second rail 117. The fluid-container-support structure 106 can also
include a first side portion 121 and a second side portion 123.
Each of the first side portion 121 and the second side portion 123
can be integral with, and can extend away from, the end portion 107
of the fluid-container-support structure 106. The first side
portion 121 can be integral with, and can protrude outwardly from,
the first side wall 101 of the receptacle 192, as shown in FIG. 24.
The second side portion 123 of the fluid-container-support
structure 106 can be integral with, and can protrude outwardly
from, the second side wall 102 of the receptacle 192, as shown in
FIG. 25.
[0075] FIG. 27 illustrates the receptacle 192 in association with
the fluid container 214, adapter 916, and nipple 288, which are
also shown in FIGS. 17-20. As shown in FIG. 27, the second end wall
104 of the receptacle 192 can extend from the first end 105 of
receptacle 192 toward the end portion 107 of the
fluid-container-support structure 106, but can be spaced from the
end portion 107 to provide access to the interior cavity 193
defined by the receptacle 192. This access can permit a caretaker
to insert a portion of the fluid container 214 into the interior
cavity 193. For example, a caretaker can insert a portion of the
fluid container 214 that is spaced from the spout 256 into the
interior cavity 193, and can then rotate the fluid container 214
such that one of the flanges 247 of the spout 256 engages each of
the first rail 109 and the second rail 117 of the end portion 107
of the fluid-container-support structure 106 of receptacle 192, as
shown in FIG. 28. The flange 247 can slidingly engage each of the
first rail 109 and the second rail 117, such that the fluid
container 214 can be moved toward the ledge 119 of the end portion
107 of the fluid-container-support structure 106. The flange 247
can contact the ledge 119, or alternatively, can be spaced from the
ledge 119.
[0076] The first end 105, which can include an end surface of each
of the first side wall 101, the second side wall 102, the first end
wall 103, and the second end wall 104, can be configured to rest
upon a support surface, for example a countertop or a table. When
the receptacle 192 is positioned in an upright orientation, as
shown in FIGS. 24, 25, and 27, the fluid container 214 can be
suspended from the first rail 109 and the second rail 117. The
adapter 916 can then be threaded onto the spout 256 of the fluid
container 214, and the nipple 288 can be threaded onto the adapter
916. In this assembled configuration, fluid, e.g., breast milk, can
be dispensed from the bag 250 of the fluid container 214, through
the passage 260 defined by the spout 256, and through the nipple
288. The receptacle 192 can have an ergonomic configuration that
can assist a caretaker when feeding an infant. For example, the
fingers of a caretaker's hand can wrap around the first end wall
103 of the receptacle 192 and can engage one of the first side wall
101 and the second side wall 102. The thumb of the caretaker's hand
can engage the other one of the first side wall 101 and the second
side wall 102, and can be positioned adjacent a respective one of
the first side portion 121 and the second side portion 123 of the
fluid-container-support structure 106, which can protrude outwardly
from the first side wall 101 and the second side wall 102,
respectively, such as to enhance ergonomics and/or grip. This grip
of the receptacle 192 can enhance a caretaker's control of the
receptacle 192.
[0077] FIG. 21 illustrates the fluid container 14 in association
with a portion of a breast pump assembly according to another
embodiment. The breast pump assembly can include a hood 218, which
can define an extraction chamber 220, and a first housing 222. The
first housing 222 can be integral with the hood 218 and can define
a flow passage 224, which can be in fluid communication with the
extraction chamber 220. The breast pump assembly can also include a
second housing 234 that can be integral with the first housing 222
and can define a vacuum chamber (not shown), which can be in fluid
communication with the flow passage 224, and a breast pump (not
shown). The breast pump assembly can also include an outlet
structure 226, which can be integral with at least one of the first
housing 222 and the second housing 234 and can include a plurality
of internal threads 229. The outlet structure 226 can define an
outlet passage 228, which can be in fluid communication with the
extraction chamber 220 and the vacuum chamber via the flow passage
224. The outlet structure 226 can also include a valve member (not
shown) which can intermittently open and close, in response to
operation of the breast pump of the breast pump assembly, to
intermittently permit expressed breast milk to flow through, and
discharge from, the outlet passage 228. The internal threads 229 of
the outlet structure 226 can engage the external threads 58 of the
spout 56 of fluid container 14, to connect the fluid container 14
to the outlet structure 226, such that the fluid chamber 52 defined
by the fluid container 14 is in at least intermittent fluid
communication with the outlet passage 228 during operation of the
breast pump. Accordingly, breast milk can be pumped out of the
outlet passage 228 defined by the outlet structure 226, through the
fluid passage 60 defined by the spout 56 of the fluid container 14
and into the fluid chamber 52 defined by the bag 50 of the fluid
container 14, without the use of an adapter or other intervening
structure.
[0078] A method of expressing breast milk according to one
embodiment, can be illustrated with respect to the breast pump
assembly 12, fluid container 14 and adapter 16, and with reference
to FIGS. 1, 2, 15, 22 and 23. The adapter 16 can be connected to
each of the fluid container 14 and the breast pump assembly 12, for
example by threadedly engaging the internal threads 74 of the
second connector portion 64 of adapter 16 with the external threads
58 of the spout 56 of fluid container 14, and threadedly engaging
the external threads 70 of the first connector portion 62 of
adapter 16 with the internal threads 46 of the collar 44 of breast
pump assembly 12. The connection of the adapter 16 to the fluid
container 14 can establish fluid communication between the interior
chamber 78 defined by the adapter 16 and the fluid chamber 52
defined by the fluid container 14.
[0079] The connection of the adapter 16 with the collar 44 of the
breast pump assembly 12 can provide at least intermittent fluid
communication between the interior chamber 78 defined by the
adapter 16 and the outlet passage 28 defined by the outlet
structure 26 of the breast pump assembly, i.e., the interior
chamber 78 can be in fluid communication with the outlet passage 28
when the valve member 32 of the outlet structure 26 is open. The
valve member 32 can be intermittently opened and closed during
operation of the breast pump (e.g., 38, 42) of the breast pump
assembly 12. Accordingly, due to the connection of the adapter 16
to each of the fluid container 14 and the breast pump assembly 12,
the fluid chamber 52 defined by the fluid container 14 can be in at
least intermittent fluid communication with the outlet passage 28
defined by the outlet structure 26 of the breast pump assembly 12,
during operation of the breast pump (e.g., 38, 42) of the breast
pump assembly 12. As a result, expressed breast milk 99 can
intermittently flow from the breast pump assembly 12 through
adapter 16 and into the fluid chamber 52 defined by the fluid
container 14.
[0080] This process can be continued until a desired volume of
breast milk 99 has been pumped into the fluid chamber 52. The
transparent nature of the first portion 51 of the bag 50 of fluid
container 14 can facilitate determining when the desired volume of
breast milk 99 has been obtained. If a caretaker desires to feed an
infant either immediately after obtaining the breast milk 99, or
within a relatively short period of time, a nipple, e.g., the
nipple 88 shown in FIG. 15 or the nipple 288 plus the adapter 916
shown in FIG. 17, can be connected to the spout 56 of the fluid
container 14 such that the breast milk 99 can be dispensed through
the nipple, for example nipple 88 or nipple 288, to the infant.
[0081] Alternatively, if it is desired to store the breast milk 99
for a relatively longer period of time, a cap, e.g., the cap 84,
can be threaded onto the spout 56 of the fluid container 14, to
close the fluid chamber 52. A caretaker can then place the fluid
container 14 within a refrigerated space, for example, a
refrigerated space 94 of a refrigerator 96 (FIG. 22). FIG. 22
illustrates a hand 91 of a caretaker grasping the fluid container
14, which is shown to be partially filled with breast milk 99, and
placing the fluid container 14 into the refrigerated space 94 of
refrigerator 96, as indicated generally by arrow 97 in FIG. 22.
Alternatively, for longer term storage, the fluid container 14 can
be placed within a refrigerated space 194 of a freezer 98 of the
refrigerator 96, as indicated generally by arrow 197, shown in
dashed lines in FIG. 22.
[0082] Subsequently, when a caretaker desires to dispense the
breast milk 99 from the fluid container 14, e.g., to feed an
infant, the caretaker can heat the fluid container 14 to increase
the temperature of the breast milk 99 within the fluid container
14. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 23, a caretaker can place
the fluid container 14 at least partially within a receptacle 17,
which can be a cup or any other suitable receptacle, and can hold
the receptacle 17 and fluid container 14 under a water faucet 11,
such that a stream of water 13 discharging from the water faucet 11
can flow onto and over the fluid container 14, to warm the
temperature of the breast milk 99 within the fluid container
14.
[0083] The use of an adapter (e.g., 16, 116, 216, 316, 416, 516,
616, and 916) to interconnect a fluid container (e.g., 14, 114 and
214) and a breast pump assembly (e.g., 12) can result in various
advantages. Adapters having other configurations (e.g., 716 and
816) can also be advantageously used with a fluid container (e.g.,
14, 114 and 214) and a breast pump assembly that can be configured,
at least in part, differently than the breast pump assembly 12.
These advantages can include increasing the quantity of useable,
expressed breast milk, which is recognized to be a very precious
and valuable commodity. For example, typical processes for
expressing and storing breast milk for subsequent consumption,
include pumping breast milk into a bottle, pouring the breast milk
out of the bottle into a flexible bag, which does not include a
spout, storing the bag in a refrigerated space, removing the bag
and heating the bag to raise the temperature of the breast milk
within the bag, and pouring the breast milk out of the bag, which
can have a relatively wide mouth or opening, into a bottle for use.
Pouring the breast milk from the initial bottle into the bag can
result in residual breast milk remaining in the bottle, e.g.,
breast milk that adheres to the side wall and/or the bottom of the
bottle. This residual breast milk is not usable. Residual breast
milk may also remain within the flexible bag when the breast milk
within the bag is poured into a bottle for use. Furthermore, it
will be appreciated that spillage may occur when the breast milk is
poured from the bag into the bottle, due to the size and shape of
the opening in the bag, the lack of a spout attached to the bag,
and the difficulty in controlling the bag during the pouring
process since the bag remains flexible, even when partially filled
with breast milk.
[0084] In contrast, pumping breast milk into a fluid container that
is suitable for storage, for example fluid containers 14, 114 and
214, eliminates the step of pouring expressed breast milk into a
storage bag, after pumping the breast milk into a bottle, and
therefore increases the quantity of useable breast milk by
eliminating any residual, or non-useable, breast milk within the
bottle. This also eliminates the need for cleaning and sterilizing
the bottle. Additionally, use of a fluid container with a spout,
for example fluid container 14 that includes a threaded spout 56,
can enhance the ability to pour the breast milk out of the fluid
container into a bottle while reducing, or eliminating, spilled
breast milk, and can enhance the ability to control the quantity of
breast milk poured into the bottle. The use of a fluid container
with an offset spout, for example fluid container 214 with offset
spout 256, can further enhance the ability to pour the breast milk
out of the fluid container (e.g., 214), or to feed an infant with a
nipple attached to the fluid container, while avoiding spillage or
leaving residual breast milk in the fluid container.
[0085] The use of a receptacle made of a rigid or semi-rigid
material in conjunction with a fluid container, for example
receptacles 92, 192 which can receive and at least partially
surround the bag of a fluid container, for example bag 250 of fluid
container 214, can enhance the ability to hold and control the
fluid container and can therefore enhance the ability to pour
breast milk out of the fluid container while avoiding spillage. Use
of adapters according to various embodiments, for example (but not
limited to) adapters 16 and 916, can permit the use of a fluid
container having a flexible bag which can be at least partially
collapsible, and expandable, with certain components (e.g., a hood
defining an extraction chamber, a breast pump, threaded collar, and
nipple) of an otherwise conventional system for expressing breast
milk.
[0086] While various embodiments of an adapter, a fluid container,
a system for expressing breast milk that includes an adapter,
subassemblies of such a system, and a method of expressing breast
milk, have been illustrated by the foregoing description and have
been described in considerable detail, it is not intended to
restrict or in any way limit the scope of the appended claims to
such detail. Additional modifications will be readily apparent to
those skilled in the art.
* * * * *